Posted by Mr. Guay on September 15, 2006, 3:30 pm It is unfortunate, however, that not everyone who tries out can be cast...and even more frustrating that sometimes it seems we "short change" some actors and actresses who gave stupendous auditions but are placed in roles that maybe don't reflect the respect the staff has for their talent or provides the challenge equal to their abilities. This is by far the saddest element of the process. I can say here with all sincerity that great pains were taken to weigh all the variables in casting THE CRUCIBLE and it made the staff very downtrodden that we couldn't have offered roles with the weight of a Proctor, Abigail, Elizabeth or Mary Warren to everyone. Part of me is brimming with excitement that I am blessed to have such dedicated and talented people, but that blessing is coupled with the reality that sometimes decisions have to be made that might not make everyone happy. Particularly when those decisions seem to repeat frequently. I wish situations were sometime different. It is very sad to see some very earnest young people be hurt by situations that might be different on another day, a different hour, an alternate time. Hurting teenagers feelings has never been something I aspired to do, only to provide a continual series of challenges, experiences and opportunities that allow those teenagers to find the variety of their voice and talent -- an alternate road to success -- an additional challenge for their abilities, even if that means a role or assignment that might not seem the right fit. However (just to tweak the feel-good aspect of this posting just a bit), my joy at finding new ways to challenge is tempered by sometimes ill-said commentary by those whose feelings might be hurt. Yes, if you are hurt, you have a right to be in a bit of pain -- totally understandable. But let's be careful not to say things we may regret in the future to someone who may have had no control over the decision -- because ultimately all casting choices meet with my final approval, and that's where the buck stops. No one but the staff knows what variables are used to make a choice for a part, so no one is in authority to offer reaction to that element. And anyone who has ever sat on the staff-side of the table knows how painful these decisions can sometimes be. I know that there may be some hurt -- but all hurt can and will eventually subside. But please remember that 68 people auditioned for the show, only 34 were called back and only 23 were cast. Those accepted into the parts have had to clear two hurdles and have been rewarded for their excellence. If one who was selected is so hurt as to despise the selection, he/she can always step aside and give that opportunity to someone who really wants it. And anyone making his/her first attempt at this process should remember that it is not too common for rookies to win those coveted large roles, or even be cast -- and that working on a crew is often the best way to get your interests in the process clearly seen. To end on a happy note -- I am proud of all of you. You have little idea the kind of feeling your diligence means to some old fuddy-duddy like me whose simple goal in life is to see teens find that moment of discovery and run with it. I hope to see you all on Monday at the first practice. I am very eager to test these new fires (an allusion to a scientific crucible), and see what true glory lies in waiting for all of us. God Bless -- G
216.11.0.254
I want to extend a hearty thank you to all the students who took the risk and auditioned for one of the most challenging shows we've ever attempted for this generation. It was invigorating to see such a wide range of talent and energy, the "raising the bar" from our upperclassmen and veterans, and the risk-taking go-for-it attitude of our freshmen and rookies -- wow...makes the job worthwhile.
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